Buying a house in Amsterdam: your guide to a successful purchase

Buying a house in Amsterdam is an exciting step. Whether you are buying for the first time, moving within the city or making an investment, the Amsterdam housing market requires a well-considered approach. In this guide, you can read about what to look out for, which neighbourhoods are popular and how to avoid pitfalls. Amstelland Makelaars helps you step by step to find and buy your dream home in Amsterdam.

Why buying a house in Amsterdam is so unique

Buying a house in Amsterdam is popular because of the unique atmosphere, rich history and vibrant culture that the city has to offer. Amsterdam combines urban dynamism with lots of greenery and water and offers plenty of amenities such as schools, shops and public transport. In addition, property values in Amsterdam continue to rise in general, which also makes buying a house in Amsterdam a wise investment.

Whether you choose a canal house, a modern apartment or a family home in a quiet neighbourhood, buying a house in Amsterdam means choosing quality of life. 

 

What should you pay attention to when buying a house in Amsterdam?

Buying a house in Amsterdam involves more than just the price. It is important to pay close attention to the following peripheral matters:

• Budget and financing: make sure you know in advance what your maximum borrowing capacity is. A mortgage advisor can help you with this.
• Location and accessibility: Amsterdam has various neighbourhoods, each with its own character. Consider accessibility by public transport and proximity to amenities. 
• Condition of the house: have a structural survey carried out to avoid hidden defects.
• Legal aspects: pay attention to matters such as leasehold, listed building status or deed of division. These can have an impact on your purchase.
• Market situation: the Amsterdam housing market is often fast-paced and competitive. Make sure you act quickly when a suitable house becomes available.

 

The best neighbourhoods for buying a house in Amsterdam

When buying a house in Amsterdam, the choice of neighbourhood plays a major role. Below is an overview of popular neighbourhoods, each with their own charm and advantages:

• Jordaan: authentic, atmospheric, lots of small shops and cafés.
• De Pijp: dynamic and multicultural, ideal for young urbanites.
• Oud-Zuid: luxurious, green and close to the Vondelpark.
• Amsterdam-Noord: up-and-coming area with more affordable properties and creative hotspots.
• Oost: diverse neighbourhoods, parks and growing popularity.

Depending on your wishes, family composition and budget, there is always a suitable neighbourhood where you can buy a house in Amsterdam.  

 

Common mistakes when buying a house in Amsterdam

When buying a house in Amsterdam, many people unknowingly make mistakes that can complicate the purchasing process or even lead to disappointment. It is important to recognise and avoid these pitfalls.

One of the most common mistakes is that buyers decide too quickly without doing sufficient research. Amsterdam has a very dynamic housing market with a lot of variation in price, location and type of homes. By not taking enough time to visit different houses and explore neighbourhoods, you run the risk of choosing a house that does not fully meet your needs. It is also wise to thoroughly research the neighbourhood and amenities: what are the parking, schools, shops and public transport options like?

Another pitfall is insufficient financial preparation. It often happens that people enthusiastically start bidding without knowing exactly how much they can borrow. This often leads to disappointment when the bid is accepted but the financing does not go through. To avoid this, it is advisable to talk to a mortgage advisor at an early stage and get a clear picture of your options. 

In addition, people sometimes forget to have a structural survey carried out before buying a property. This survey reveals any hidden defects, such as damp problems, foundation damage or outdated installations. Failure to carry out such an inspection can lead to unexpected high costs later on. Especially in Amsterdam, where there are many older houses, such an inspection is essential. 

Furthermore, people often bid too much based on emotion. Although a property often has emotional value, this can lead buyers to bid too high for fear of missing out on the property. As a result, you sometimes pay more than the actual market value. It is therefore important to remain rational when bidding and to seek advice from an expert estate agent.

Finally, there is often too little legal scrutiny. Amsterdam, for example, has many leasehold constructions and monumental buildings, to which special rules and conditions apply. If these matters are not properly examined, it can cause major problems or delays later on. It is therefore wise to work closely with an estate agent who is familiar with these legal aspects and can check them when purchasing a property. 

 

How the purchasing process works when buying a house in Amsterdam

Buying a house in Amsterdam involves a number of clear steps that help you maintain an overview and control of the entire process. By following these steps, you increase your chances of a successful purchase. 

Orientation

Inform yourself thoroughly about the Amsterdam housing market, determine your budget and list your housing requirements. This is also the time to contact a mortgage advisor, so that you know exactly how much you can borrow and what your monthly costs will be.

Viewings 

Actively view properties. Don't buy the first nice house you see, but visit several properties so you can compare them properly. Take photos and make notes so you can make an informed choice later.

Making an offer

Have you found your dream home? Then this is an important moment to make a well-founded offer together with your estate agent. 

Negotiation

After making the offer, a negotiation process may follow in which you agree on the price, completion date and any resolutive conditions such as financing reservation or structural inspection.

Arrange financing

If your offer is accepted, you can finalise your financing. This means submitting all the necessary documents to the bank and officially applying for a mortgage. This process can take weeks, so it is a good idea to start early.

Structural survey

At the same time, the house is often inspected by a structural engineer. The survey is crucial to ensure that there are no hidden defects that could lead to high costs later on. If the survey reveals any problems, you can renegotiate with the seller.

Signing the contract

Next, you sign the purchase agreement. This clearly describes all the agreements and conditions. Read it carefully and have it checked by a lawyer if necessary. 

Notary and transfer

The final step is the transfer at the notary. On the day of transfer, you sign the deed of transfer and become the official owner of the house. You then receive the keys and can move into your new home.  

 

Buying and selling a house in Amsterdam

Are you planning to sell a house in Amsterdam, but also want to buy a house in Amsterdam at the same time? Then it is important to coordinate both processes carefully. The Amsterdam housing market moves quickly, so timing is crucial. 

Many homeowners choose to sell their house first, so they know exactly what their budget is for the next purchase. Others choose to buy first, for fear of missing out on their dream home.

Both strategies have their advantages and disadvantages. If you sell first, you have more certainty, but you may be temporarily without a home. If you buy first, double housing costs can be a risk. A good estate agent will help you assess these risks and can include smart conditions in the purchase contract, such as a reservation clause for the sale of your own home. 

 

How Amstelland Makelaars helps you buy a house in Amsterdam

Amstelland Makelaars provides personal guidance through every step of buying a house in Amsterdam. From searching for the perfect house to arranging financing and legal checks. Our local knowledge and experience make all the difference.

We offer:

• Personal guidance and advice
  

• Access to an exclusive range of properties via our website and network

• Support with negotiations and contracts

• Transparency and clarity throughout the entire process

Are you planning to buy a house in Amsterdam soon? Then contact us for a no-obligation consultation. Together, we will make your dream home a reality. Send an email to info@amstellandmakelaars.nl or call +31 20 320 90 80.